GALASSO: If God brought you through yesterday's difficulties, He can take you through tomorrow's

What's on your mind today? What are you allowing to motivate or drive your thought processes? I once heard that an average person's anxiety is mostly focused on:

-- 40 percent of situations that will never happen.

-- 30 percent of past circumstances which can't be changed.

-- 12 percent of gossip and untrue criticism spoken from others.

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-- 10 percent about health issues, which can get worse with stress.

-- 8 percent or less about real problems that we could face.

Many of us spend our precious time and energy worrying about situations that will not come to pass. And moreover, we worry about things that won't really matter in the long run. So, if eight percent or less of all the issues in our lives may transpire, why do we spend so much time overwhelmed with worry?

When we think back on our childhood, for many of us that was a time of carefree days, when it seemed as though, "All things were possible." Thereafter, we grow up, and perhaps, go through challenges, and then begin to worry ourselves to the point where we're not enjoying our precious life anymore.

Yet, God is waiting to advance you toward His will, granting you the desires of your heart. But first, you must release your cares and worries. Cast your burdens on God, and let go of fearful concern over uncertainties that lie ahead. Don't allow your mind to be filled with anxiety and thoughts of doubt and defeat that try to force you to give up on accomplishing your goals. Rather, each morning begin by saying, "Thank you, God. I know you have me in the palm of your Hand." Shift the focus of your attention onto what's good and right and accept the great life that is waiting for you. Remember, if God brought you through yesterday's difficulties, He can take you through tomorrow's.

I like the story about a group of fishermen who navigated their boat to their favorite spot on the water to spend a productive, yet relaxing, day fishing in the deep blue ocean. The fishermen had been to this prime location many times before; for at this particular place, they always seemed to catch an abundance of large fish.

Hours passed, and the fishing trip was indeed successful, as buckets of fish were caught. But suddenly, a vicious storm moved in, and the fishermen found themselves surrounded by a thick, dense fog. Thus, they could only see a few feet in front of them. In an attempt to quickly get back to the safety of the harbor, the fishermen determined which way to steer the boat and then began going in that direction. However, one of them reached in his pocket for a small compass, looked at it, and saw that the dial pointed the opposite way. Should the fishermen follow their own course? Or should they keep to the directive of the compass? They all agreed to follow the direction of the compass and turn the boat around. A while later, through the fog, the fishermen saw the faint silhouette of the shoreline. And they were thankful that the reliable compass had directed them aright. The fishermen had trusted the compass's route, and they returned to the dock safely. Just as the compass directed the fishermen to safety, in His good and perfect time, God will provide the best course for you.

Scriptures says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs to it and is safe." (Proverbs 18:10). God is walking before you, and He is showing you the way to victory. So stay in peace and be attentive to the way in which God will guide you, for it can take on many forms:

-- Pick up the Bible and read the Psalms and Proverbs, as God leads through His Word.

-- Spend a few minutes a day in complete silence and listen--God speaks through your consciousness, nudging you toward a particular path.

-- Be alert to the encouragement and wisdom you receive from family, faithful friends, mentors, and even strangers.

-- When you pray, ask God to show you how you can be effective in each area of your life, and then follow His guidance.

-- Be on the lookout--He can help you via what may seem like only coincidence.

God's eye is watching even the tiniest sparrow, so surely He will take care of you and supply your needs. I am reminded of a letter I received from a dear reader who wrote, "A few months ago, I was separated from my husband after many years of marriage. It has been an extremely difficult period for me and I 'stumbled' across one of your articles. 'Stumbled' is another word for what I know was 'Divine Intervention' since this was the first time I had ever seen one of your writings.

"It was as if you were talking to me directly and knew everything I had been experiencing. [That first] article, and all those that followed, have given me such strength and hope for the future. I have cut out every one, read and re-read them every day. I just wanted to let you know how much you have helped me. I am looking forward to a new chapter in my life with excited anticipation. It will be far from easy, but I know God is close at hand to help me along."

Take to God everything that concerns you. His grace and power are far greater than we can imagine, and He stands ready to perform miracles beyond our comprehension. God has a blessing for your life. All things are still possible. So with confidence, look out from where you are, to where you want to go....you will get there.